A temporary roof at the Aquatic Complex in Thrissur, the venue for the swimming events of the State School Games, collapsed amid heavy rain on Thursday evening, injuring four students and two parents.
The incident occurred when relay events were under way. The temporary structure reportedly gave way in strong winds, leaving the students and parents injured. They were rushed to a private hospital for treatment.
Students from all 14 districts are participating in the swimming events at the venue. The incident has also raised concerns over the arrangements made for the large number of participants and spectators. There have been widespread complaints that only small temporary sheds have been provided for students and others at the venue.
The shelter collapsed while spectators, young athletes and parents were watching a swimming relay. The collapse of the makeshift shelter has triggered concerns over the safety and adequacy of temporary facilities arranged at the venue, particularly amid the ongoing spell of heavy rain.
Parents questioned why weather warnings and the possibility of strong winds were ignored by the organisers. They also complained that the event organisers or medical first-aid teams were not present at the venue for immediate support. Parents reportedly had to take their injured children to hospital themselves.
